Coastal dune areas have multiple functions: they protect the low-lying polder area against flooding and salinisation, offer touristic and ecological values and are an important freshwater resource for drinking water supply. The coastal dune area in Belgium is highly urbanised which has led to a decrease in natural groundwater recharge and an increase in groundwater extraction. In addition, climate change and sea level rise threaten the availability of freshwater in these areas.
To protect these freshwater resources, understanding the impact of urbanisation, climate change and sea level rise is necessary. Groundwater modelling can predict the evolution of the fresh-salt water distribution and indicate which part of the dune area is more vulnerable for urbanization, climate change and/or sea level rise.
Together with stakeholders, the potential of different measures will be investigated. The project will lead to a cooperative and sustainable management of freshwater resources in the dune area.
| Flanders Environment Agency (VMM) | Image  |
